VI.
“He, sometimes towering, soars into the skies;
“Then seems, descending, but to skim the ground:
“And of all beauteous women makes a prize,
“Who, to their mischief, in these parts are found.
“Hence, whether in their own or others’ eyes,
“Esteemed as fair, the wretched damsels round,
“(And all in fact the felon plunders) hide;
“As fearing of the sun to be descried.
VII.
“A castle on the Pyrenean height
“The necromancer keeps, the work of spell,”
(The host relates) “of steel, so fair and bright,
“All nature cannot match the wonderous shell.
“There many cavaliers, to prove their might,
“Have gone, but none returned the tale to tell.
“So that I doubt, fair sir, the thief enthralls
“Or slays whoever in the encounter falls.”
VIII.
The watchful maid attends to every thing,
Glad at her heart, and trusting to complete
(What she shall compass by the virtuous ring)
The downfall of the enchanter and his seat.
Then to the host—“A guide I pray thee bring,
“Who better knows than me the thief’s retreat.
“So burns my heart, (nor can I choose but go)
“To strive in battle with this wizard foe.”
